Spring is finally here, and with it comes a vibrant palette of fresh fruits, crisp vegetables, and fragrant herbs. After a long winter, there’s nothing more refreshing than lightening up our meals and embracing the bright flavors of the season. Whether you’re cooking for a quiet evening or hosting a breezy brunch, these easy, spring-inspired recipes will help you savor every bite of the season.
A Garden-Fresh Start: Spring Pea and Mint Soup
Spring peas are at their peak in early spring and make the perfect base for a light but creamy soup. This recipe pairs sweet green peas with fresh mint for a clean, cooling flavor that feels like the essence of spring.
Ingredients:
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 3 cups shelled peas (fresh or frozen)
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- A handful of fresh mint leaves
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
Sauté onion in olive oil until soft. Add peas and broth, bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes. Stir in mint and blend until smooth. Season to taste. Serve warm or chilled, topped with a dollop of yogurt or a drizzle of cream.
Bright and Zesty: Lemon-Herb Grilled Chicken
This juicy grilled chicken recipe is infused with the sunny flavors of lemon, garlic, and herbs. It’s perfect for a quick dinner or to slice up over salads throughout the week.
Ingredients:
- 2 boneless chicken breasts
- Juice and zest of 1 lemon
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tsp dried oregano or fresh thyme
- Salt and pepper
Instructions:
Whisk together lemon juice, zest, oil, garlic, and herbs. Pour over chicken and marinate for at least 30 minutes. Grill over medium heat until golden and cooked through. Serve with a side of asparagus or over a bed of greens.
Sweet Ending: Strawberry-Basil Shortcakes
Few things signal spring like juicy strawberries—and this twist on a classic dessert brings in a subtle hint of basil for a gourmet touch.
Ingredients:
- 1 pint fresh strawberries, sliced
- 2 tbsp sugar
- 1 tsp chopped fresh basil
- Store-bought shortcake biscuits or sponge cakes
- Whipped cream
Instructions:
Mix strawberries with sugar and basil. Let sit for 15 minutes until juicy. Slice biscuits, spoon strawberries and juice over bottom halves, add whipped cream, and top with remaining halves. Garnish with a basil leaf for extra flair.
Final Thoughts
Spring is the perfect time to refresh your meals and celebrate the return of color and flavor to your kitchen. With these light, easy recipes, you can enjoy the season’s bounty without spending hours in the kitchen. So open the windows, let in the sunshine, and bring the joy of spring to your table.